Voice of the King: did Richard III have a West Midlands accent?

Researchers at the University of Leicester, who have studied language patterns
in his writing, believe Richard III may have had a West Midlands accent.

2:58PM GMT 05 Feb 2013

The language, spelling and grammar patterns from two letters written by Richard III indicate he spoke in dialect consistent with the West Midlands region, according to Dr Philip Shaw from the Department of English at the University of Leicester.

"Like today, there were various dialects around the country." He explains.

"Unlike today, individuals were more likely to spell words in ways that reflected their local dialect."

"The language used largely reflects the relatively standard, London-derived spelling system also used by Richard’s secretaries.

"However, there is also at least one spelling he employs that may suggest a West Midlands accent."

Dr Shaw reads from a letter written by the late king in which he asks to borrow money.